Which of the following properly describes an ion
To determine which of the following options properly describes an ion, we first need to understand what an ion is.
An ion is an atom or molecule that has gained or lost electrons, giving it a positive or negative charge. This charge is due to an unequal number of protons and electrons.
Now, let's evaluate each of the options to determine which one describes an ion correctly:
1. "An ion is an atom with a neutral charge."
This statement is incorrect because an ion by definition has a charge, either positive or negative. So, this option does not properly describe an ion.
2. "An ion is an atom with a positive charge."
This statement is correct. A positively charged ion, called a cation, results from the loss of one or more electrons from an atom.
3. "An ion is an atom with a negative charge."
This statement is correct. A negatively charged ion, called an anion, results from the gain of one or more electrons by an atom.
Based on the evaluation, both options 2 and 3 correctly describe an ion. An ion can be an atom with either a positive or negative charge, depending on whether it has lost or gained electrons, respectively.